Sep 29, 2010

Balochistan: Islamabad Dismisses Criticism Concerning Implementation of Reform Package


The Pakistani Government has brushed aside the charges of corruption and appointment irregularities made by Baloch officials with regards to implementation of the Aghaz-e-Huqooq Balochistan Package. Islamabad confirmed its commitment to national reconciliation and discarded criticism of neglect of the Baloch population.

 

Below is an article published by the Associated Press of Pakistan


Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan on Tuesday [28 September 2010] brushed aside the notion of neglecting the Balochistan people. Responding to points of order by Abdul Qadir Baloch and Usman Advocate, Dr Babar Awan said that the government was sincerely moving forward on the implementation of Agahz-e-Huqooq Balochistan.

The minister said,” comparing today’s situation with the past is injustice. Earlier there was a war like situation and some patriotic leaders were also killed who had voted for the creation of Pakistan. Now the situation has improved and the President had apologized to the Baloch people to apply balm to their wounds”.
“NFC Award, Aghaz-e-Huqooq Balochistan and financial autonomy under the 18th amendment speak loudly of our government’s commitment to address the problems of Balochistan,” he said.
“We promoted the policy of national reconciliation. We engaged into dialogue with aggrieved parties and other stakeholders,” he added. “It is a sincere beginning and we shall take it forward.”
He said a Commission like body has been constituted to implement the package and the Prime Minister is personally monitoring the implementation process. “We have also received input from members of upper house. Construction of two cantonments has been stopped and more measures are underway in this regard.”


Abdul Qadir Baloch had sought information about the implementation of the package and alleged that recruitment process was wrought with corruption.
He said no further action was taken on it except giving jobs to people in education department where also even the courts have found out irregularities.
Usman Advocate also mentioned irregularities in appointments.